New York - Metro NYC
Dames in the New York area have three chapters to choose from!!! We suggest you join them all and take advantage of all of the fun activities the Dames have to offer!
Catherine Rodriguez-Torres
Head Dame
NY - Metro NYC
Hi, Dames! I am Catherine – a Brooklyn born Puerto Rican woman exploring as many nooks and crannies of our Metro NYC area as possible!
I discovered Trail Dames in April 2021 - yeap, during the pandemic. As many of us did during this time, I found myself reassessing my life, thinking on the things that mattered, and making room for a new way of doing things. Hiking always seemed like something "other people" did – younger, fitter, more agile people. Surely, hikers start at an early age, like professional athletes. Right? I mean, you can't just get up one day and go for a hike, or could you? Well... the call was too strong. I just felt like I was missing out and I really really reeeeeeeeally wanted in! What is this world and how do I become a part of it?! I did a quick google search for "plus size women hiking in NYC" and crossed my fingers. Was there even such a thing? Yes! Yes, there is! I immediately found Trail Dames and this wonderful chapter that Stacey founded. Without thinking twice (I was terrified), I signed up for their next scheduled hike which was the very next day and... oh... em... gee.
I had no idea what I was doing. I was wearing regular sneakers – zero support or traction. I didn't know why everyone had hiking poles – would we need them as weapons? I thought it was absolute magic that they knew how to find and follow a trail – I didn't realize there were blazes marking the way. But, this group of women welcomed me in a way that I didn't know I needed. Like a hug from an old friend. I never felt so scared, yet so safe at the same time. And, for the first time in my 50+ years, this city girl finally felt like the outdoors were accessible.
I learned to do all the things over time and have been hiking/exploring ever since, even traveling abroad on hiking trips. Trail Dames opened a whole new world for me. And, I want to keep that legacy in our NYC area going. I want to celebrate all the different ways our diverse bodies exist, in both urban and in wilderness settings. Our urban hikes around the five boroughs will include paved paths, walkways, greenways, trails, parks, and beaches. Our wilderness hikes will take us to the Hudson Valley, Long Island, NJ, and Connecticut areas. Whether gentle, regular, or dynamic, our hikes together are going to be a totally chill vibe, with plenty of opportunity to revel in the wonder that is our body while adventuring together in our Metro NYC area.
I look forward to being in community with you!
SPONSORS
